Renault - Clio

The Clio stands at the forefront of the trend for growing superminis - it's pretty much as big as the previous generation Renault Megane. Buyers will get themselves a solid and well equipped car, and although basic versions lack much in the way of excitement, the range-topping 197 delivers thrills aplenty.

Styling sticks closely to that of the previous generation car: it's pleasant enough, but not particularly distinctive. The cabin is well finished and spacious, with the driver enjoying a decent range of seat and steering wheel position adjustment. Rear seat space is respectable and the boot is spacious by class standards.

On the road the Clio feels very sensible, with a chassis that combines a comfortable ride with decent cruising refinement, although bigger wheeled versions can feel a bit clumpy on rough urban tarmac. Basic versions handle respectably enough, but for dynamic thrills you'll have to turn to the storming RenaultSport 197.

The basic 1.2 litre petrol engine lacks much in the way of urge and feels out of its depth beyond derestriction signs. The 1.4 litre petrol engine is a far more lively prospect, although it sounds thrashy under hard acceleration. If the budget will stretch then the punchy 1.6 litre unit is definitely the pick of the non-RenaultSport petrols. Three 1.5 litre diesel engines offer exceptional economy, with the most powerful 104 bhp version giving decent performance too.